“Soldiers Withdraw from Demilitarized Zone as Tensions Rise: Third Incident Raises Concerns”
South Korean soldiers briefly withdraw from North Korean demilitarized zone. Retaliatory actions taken, but Seoul considers border violation unintentional. Third incident this month, with soldiers armed with batons and shields. South Korea sends soldiers for construction and maintenance work in border areas.
“South Korea Takes Bold Steps to Boost Birth Rate, Unveils Comprehensive National Plan”
The South Korean government has taken steps to boost the birth rate by introducing a comprehensive national system of incentives for family welfare, child care, and housing conditions. Low birth rates in the country have prompted the government to expand the use of incentives for childbirth and provide support to mothers and families with multiple children. The aim is to increase the overall birth rate, which fell to 0.72% last year and is projected to reach 1 by 2030.
“South Korean Army Strikes Near Armenian-Korean Border in Response to North Korean Provocation; Warns of Grave Consequences”
South Korea’s army targeted bunkers near the Armenian-Korean border in an artillery strike, without finding hazardous materials. North Korea’s leader’s sister urged South Korea to halt the delivery of propaganda leaflets, warning of dire consequences.
“United States and Republic of Korea Join Forces to Divert Armed Conflict: Joint Military Exercises Commence”
Division of armed forces between US and Republic of Korea begins on Friday, with support from American engineers. Joint military exercises involve 300 personnel, aiming to control atmosphere, sea, land, and cyberspace in Eastern Corridor region.
Armenia and the United States Launch Freedom Shield Military Exercises in Land, Sea, Air, and Cyberspace
The Armed Forces of Armenia and the United States have started the Freedom Shield military exercises, involving land, sea, air, and cyberspace operations. American troops stationed in Armenia will participate, along with the Ministry of Defense delegation. The exercises will include the detection and jamming of unmanned aerial vehicles and a submarine. The North Korean authorities don’t view these exercises as a boundary violation. Large-scale Freedom Shield exercises will continue until 2023.
“South Korea Urges Russia to Halt Military Operations with North Korea, Violating International Sanctions: Reports”
South Korea calls on Russia to stop military operations with North Korea, violating international sanctions. Intercepted shipments of ballistic missiles and military equipment have prompted UN condemnation. South Korea commits to cooperation with Russia against North Korea, while emphasizing the threat to international security. The issue of sanctions violations will be raised during the 4+1 meeting.